Jordanians rally for promised reforms

Jordanians have staged anti-government protest rallies in the capital, Amman, and other main cities to demand long-awaited reforms, reports say.

Hundreds of Jordanians took to the streets across the country following the Friday Prayers to protest against the slow pace of reform in the country.

They also called for an end to corruption and the prosecution of corrupt officials. They also urged the government to create more jobs.

In the capital, the rally was held under heavy police presence. Witnesses say hard-line government supporters tried to attack protesters, but there were no reports of clashes.

Jordanians have been holding street protests demanding political reform, including the election of the prime minister by popular vote, and an end to corruption since January. There have been no calls for the king to be removed.

Since the beginning of protest rallies, Jordanian ruler, King Abdullah II, has sacked two prime ministers in a bid to avoid more protests. Awn al-Khasawneh, a judge at International Court of Justice, is Jordan’s third premier this year.

The king has also amended 42 articles in the 60-year-old constitution, giving parliament a stronger role in decision-making.